Dog movies tend to paint canines as cartoon characters: They destroy things; they save the day by alerting firemen and cops; they prance around to goofy music. A few films, like My Dog Skip and Old Yeller, managed to show dogs as what they truly are: a loved and integral part of the family. Not only can you add this film to the list of real movies about dogs; you can put it right on top. Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston play the Grogans, the owners of Marley, the worlds worst dog. Whats so nice about this movie is that it doesnt overdo it with the dog shenanigans. Wilson is great, as is Aniston; they make a believable couple, coping with the rigors of raising a family and dealing with a dog that eats sofas. This doesnt feel like some silly canine caper; it feels true, with real feelings, real people and a dog that seems real (except for the part about eating answering machines).
ByBob Grimm